About the Parsons Arboretum
This 19-acre park is an outdoor laboratory and visitors' center. A variety of trees, plants, and shrubs are grown in natural conditions including a wetlands area. The arboretum was created on land deed from the Union Pacific Railroad in October 1991.

Visitors Center
The Earl Seifert Visitors' Center was created from an old municipal pool building that stood on the site. It includes a meeting room with a kitchenette and is handicap accessible and includes a restroom.

Amenities
The site includes two acres of wetlands funded by Westar Energy employees. The observation deck in the wetlands project was provided with funds and volunteer labor by the Southeast Kansas Audubon Society. Other features of the arboretum include a gazebo, a memorial tree area, nature trails throughout the park, an 18-hole disc golf course that is shared with Glenwood Park and numerous well-kept flowerbeds that surround a memorial arbor.

Ongoing Development
The non-profit Parsons Arboretum Foundation, Inc., along with the City of Parsons, oversee the development of the Parsons Arboretum and Visitors' Center. The Parsons Arboretum Foundation, Inc., supports the ongoing care and continued improvements of the arboretum through financial donations of charter members and annual supporting members.

Reservations
To reserve an arboretum facility, contact the city at 620-421-7030 to check for availability.